Slope hazard study completed
Published on: Friday, June 27, 2025
Published on: Fri, Jun 27, 2025
By: Winnie Kasmir Text Size: Briefing session on PBRC project to the relevant agencies. SANDAKAN: The four-month study on the Slope Hazard and Risk Mapping (PBRC) project in the Cecily area here has been fully completed. It began on Feb 26, this year. The PBRC report will serve as a valuable reference for relevant authorities in disaster management activities, especially in landslide-prone areas, as well as for development planning in the region. Sabah Malaysian Minerals and Geoscience Department (JMG) Director Dr Frederick Francis Tating said the study includes data identifying areas with potential disaster risks based on assessed vulnerability levels. 'This report not only provides a detailed assessment of landslide susceptibility in the study area, but also offers essential guidance for development planning agencies in determining the suitability of sites for future projects,' he said in a press conference after handing over the PBRC report to the relevant State agencies in Sandakan, witnessed by Karamunting People Development Leader Datuk Chew Kok Who. 'We have produced three main maps: a susceptibility map, a landslide hazard map and an element-at-risk map,' said Frederick. 'In addition, a development suitability map has also been created to support more effective planning processes.' The study area has been classified into four categories based on geological conditions and topography, each influencing the level of risk and associated development costs. Class One refers to flat areas with low risk and Class Four comprises hilly terrain with high geological stress, requiring in-depth studies and higher development costs. JMG has submitted all findings to the relevant Technical Committee. If necessary, the department is ready to provide briefings and technical support to any planning or implementing agencies. 'This information is vital to ensure that development in high-risk areas is carried out cautiously, with appropriate mitigation measures in place,' said Frederick. The study is expected to serve as a key reference for the Government in strengthening infrastructure safety and minimising the impact of natural disasters, particularly landslides, in the future. He also said JMG has identified several sites in the Cecily area that would benefit from the installation of an Early Warning System (EWS) to detect potential landslide activity at an early stage. Meanwhile, Chew said the PBRC report would assist in assessing high-risk areas and allow for more informed planning decisions to prevent unwanted incidents. 'With this available data, we will proceed with caution should any development be planned in the Cecily area,' he said. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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